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Is Lexus ES 350 a V6?

Yes. The Lexus ES 350 uses a 3.5-liter V6 engine. It is the non-hybrid, gasoline-powered variant of the ES lineup, while the ES 300h is a hybrid that uses a four-cylinder engine paired with electric motors.

Engine details and performance

The ES 350 is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 that belongs to the Toyota/Lexus 2GR family. It is paired with an automatic transmission and is offered with front-wheel drive as standard, with all-wheel drive available on certain trims and model years. This setup is designed to deliver smooth, quiet power for everyday driving and confident highway merging. By contrast, the ES 300h uses a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine combined with electric motors to provide higher fuel efficiency with a different power delivery profile.

Below are the core specifications that define the ES 350’s V6 configuration and performance.

Engine: 3.5-liter V6 (2GR-FKS family)

Drivetrain: front-wheel drive standard; all-wheel drive available on some models

Transmission: 8-speed automatic

Power output: typically in the low- to mid-300 horsepower range, depending on model year

Fuel economy and efficiency: generally lower than the ES 300h hybrid, reflecting the V6 setup

In summary, the ES 350’s V6 powertrain emphasizes refined on-road performance and smooth operation, making it the conventional gasoline option in the ES lineup. The ES 300h offers a different balance focused on efficiency and hybrid technology.

ES 350 vs. ES 300h: key differences

To understand how the gasoline ES 350 compares with the hybrid ES 300h, here are the essential distinctions buyers consider when choosing between the two:

Engine configuration: ES 350 uses a 3.5-liter V6; ES 300h uses a 2.5-liter inline-4 paired with electric motors.

Transmission: ES 350 pairs the V6 with an 8-speed automatic; ES 300h uses a hybrid system with an electric continuously variable transmission (ECVT) setup.

Performance vs. efficiency: ES 350 emphasizes strong, refined gasoline power; ES 300h prioritizes fuel economy and lower running costs over sheer power.

Drivetrain options: both offer front-wheel drive as standard, with AWD available on the ES 350 in some years; the ES 300h’s AWD availability varies by market and year.

Pricing and trims: ES 350 generally carries a higher starting price than the ES 300h due to the larger V6 powertrain and different equipment packages.

Bottom line: If you want a traditional gasoline V6 experience with linear power and quiet highway cruising, the ES 350 is the pick. If your priority is efficiency and a hybrid-driven approach, the ES 300h provides notable fuel savings and a different driving character.

Additional notes for buyers

When evaluating an ES, check the badge on the trunk lid and the engine bay to confirm whether you’re looking at an ES 350 (V6) or an ES 300h (hybrid). For used-car considerations, listen for typical V6 characteristics such as a steady idle and strong, seamless acceleration, while hybrids should demonstrate smooth transitions between electric and gasoline power and may show hybrid-specific warning indicators if there are fault codes.

Summary

The Lexus ES 350 is a V6-powered model featuring a 3.5-liter engine, delivering smooth and refined gasoline performance. The ES lineup also includes the ES 300h hybrid, which uses a four-cylinder engine plus electric motors for greater efficiency. Buyers can choose between the traditional V6 powertrain and the hybrid setup based on their priorities for performance versus efficiency.

What is the common problem in Lexus ES 350?

Common problems reported for the Lexus ES 350 include oil leaks, issues with the infotainment and navigation systems, a melting dashboard, and potential engine problems like blown cylinder head gaskets, especially in certain model years. Owners have also noted problems with brakes, window or sunroof malfunctions, and steering issues.

Engine and mechanical issues

Oil leaks: Leaks from the engine area, often due to faulty gaskets or seals, are frequently reported.
Engine problems: Issues such as blown cylinder head gaskets (particularly in 2007-2009 models), ticking or knocking sounds, and general engine problems can occur.
Brakes: Some owners report premature wear on brake pads and rotors, as well as vibration or pulsation during braking.
Steering: Problems with the steering system have also been cited.
Transmission: Major transmission issues have been reported in some cases.

Electrical and infotainment problems

Melting dashboard: This is a well-known issue on some models, where the dashboard material degrades and melts.
Infotainment and navigation: Common complaints include issues with the infotainment system, GPS failures, and software problems.
Windows and sunroofs: Some owners have reported that windows or the sunroof can open on their own.
Airbags: There have been recalls for airbag issues, such as the passenger front airbag not deploying as needed.

Other issues

Intended acceleration: Some drivers have experienced unintended acceleration.
Wind noise: Intrusive wind noise, particularly at highway speeds, is noted by some owners of newer models.

Is the Lexus 350 a V6 or V8?

LEXUS RX 350 PERFORMANCE SPECS
Every 2022 RX 350 is powered by a 3.5L V6 engine, which is mated to an electronically controlled 8-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive (FWD) is standard, but you can opt for available Dynamic Torque Control all-wheel drive (AWD) for improved traction on wet or snowy roads.

Is the Lexus ES 350 a V6?

All ES350 trims come with a 3.5-liter V-6 that generates 302 horsepower and is teamed with an eight-speed automatic transmission that sends power to the front wheels.

Which Lexus has a V6 engine?

Several Lexus models offer a V6 engine, including the ES 350, IS 300/350 AWD, GS 350, LS 500 AWD, RC 300/350 AWD, LX 600, and the GX. These models feature either a naturally aspirated, turbocharged, or hybrid V6, depending on the specific trim and model year.

Sedans and coupes

Lexus ES 350: Features a 3.5L V6 engine.
Lexus IS: All-wheel drive (AWD) versions of the IS 300 and IS 350 come with a 3.5L V6 engine.
Lexus GS: AWD versions of the GS 350 are equipped with a 3.5L V6.
Lexus LS: The AWD versions of the LS 500 and LS 500 F Sport use a 3.5L V6 engine.
Lexus RC: AWD models, such as the RC 300 and RC 350, have a 3.5L V6 engine.

SUVs and trucks

Lexus LX: The LX 600 is powered by a twin-turbo V6 engine.
Lexus GX: This model is equipped with a twin-turbocharged V6 engine.

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.